Anti-anxiety medications are grouped into several different types of classifications, according to the Merck Manual (see Resources). Some people with anxiety issues take sedatives that make them more relaxed, or antidepressants that alter chemical levels in the brain. Other types of anti-anxiety medications are classified as benzodiazepine drugs and barbiturates, which can become addictive if not handled carefully. Some people who take anti-anxiety medications can become dependent on the drugs within just a few weeks, which can compound their anxiety problems even further. When switching medications, it's important to be aware of withdrawal symptoms that may occur with anti-anxiety drugs.
Recognizing Dependency
If you have taken benzodiazepine drugs such as Valium, Xanax or Ativan for 16 weeks or longer and find that you need to take higher dosages in order to feel the effects, you may have become dependent on the drug. Being unable to perform normal, everyday tasks may be an indication that your medication is not only no longer working for you but has become addictive. You may feel like you are out of control unless you take your medication, which is another sign that you are becoming addicted to the drug and can continue until the substance is out of your system. Your doctor may choose to find a new medicine that will help reduce your anxiety without the threat of addiction.
Emotional Withdrawal Symptoms
During the transition period from one anti-anxiety medication to another, you may feel withdrawal symptoms that are emotional in nature. Feeling more anxious than normal, being confused, restless and unable to sleep are all withdrawal symptoms that are consistent with many kinds of anti-anxiety medication. Hallucinations may occur as well, which can be deeply disturbing to the individual experiencing them, as well as those around him.
Physical Withdrawal Symptoms
Physical withdrawal symptoms are also characteristic of anti-anxiety medicines. Because your body has become accustomed to the substances you have been taking, it may react adversely when you are not supplying it with the drugs any longer. You may feel shaky and weak, be tachycardic (have a racing heartbeat) and sweat profusely when you are in withdrawal mode.
Minimizing Symptoms
If you need to stop taking a particular anti-anxiety medication, it's best to wean yourself from the drug under the supervision of your doctor. Quitting "cold turkey," especially with a powerful barbiturate drug, can cause your withdrawal symptoms to worsen. Consult your doctor about creating a "step-down" program in which you gradually decrease the dosage of your medication over a period of several weeks. You may still experience withdrawal symptoms as the level of medication in your body tapers off, but they will most likely be minor as compared to the abrupt drop that occurs when you stop high doses of the drug at once.
Support Systems
People who are transitioning between anti-anxiety drugs need strong support systems in place to help them through the process. It's important for every person in withdrawal to have a safe place in which to stay, whether it is at home or in a hospital or rehabilitation program. Some people may become violent or exhibit behavior that is dangerous to themselves or others when withdrawal symptoms are severe and include hallucinations. Mental health professionals should be available to the person who is experiencing withdrawal, to discuss the anxiety or other issues that remain during this time.
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